Sustainable Valorization of Fruit and Vegetable Waste for Bioactive Compounds: Advancing Functional Food and Wellness
摘要
The surge in global fruit and vegetable waste (FVW), influenced by increasing population and shifting consumption patterns, presents both a challenge and an opportunity. FVW represents a considerable global challenge; however, it harbors potential bioactive compounds with various health-promoting properties, including polyphenols, antimicrobial peptides, functional lipids, and dietary fibers. This review examines efficient methods for extracting and isolating these bioactive, including advanced techniques such as ultrasonication, supercritical fluid extraction, and enzymatic treatments, which maximize yields while maintaining bioactivity. The antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties of these compounds make them valuable for functional food applications aimed at improving public health. Additionally, integrating food waste bioactive into wellness product aligns with consumer demand for sustainable and health-promoting food options. However, translating this potential into practice requires overcoming the barriers related to large-scale production, regulatory approval, and public acceptance. The novelty of this review lies in its comprehensive analysis of advanced technologies for enhancing bioactive stability and retention, providing practical strategies for overcoming challenges in large-scale production, regulatory compliance, and consumer acceptance. This review also aims to shift food systems toward sustainability, transforming waste into valuable resources for human health.
Graphical Abstract